Author Archives: Bethany

5 Things Saving My Sanity This Week

1. My “Did I Roll My Eyes Out Loud” Morning Mug

There’s something about that first cup of coffee that feels like a tiny contract with the universe: I will show up today, but only after this. I’ve been using my oversized, slightly dramatic mug every morning, and it’s become a ritual. I sit for five quiet minutes—no phone, no to‑do list, no one asking where their shoes are. Just me, my coffee, and a moment to breathe before the day starts sprinting.

2. A 10-Minute Evening Reset

I’ve stopped trying to do a full clean-up at night (because honestly, who has the energy?). Instead, I set a timer for ten minutes and do the bare minimum: clear the counters, fluff the couch pillows, toss stray socks into the laundry basket. It’s amazing how much calmer the house feels in the morning when it doesn’t look like a tornado named “Family Life” blew through.

3. My Walking Playlist

I’ve been sneaking in indoor walks during the day—just ten or fifteen minutes—to shake off the mental fog. My playlist is pure serotonin: a mix of early‑2000s throwbacks, a little Taylor Swift, and one or two songs that make me feel like the main character in a movie montage. It’s the quickest way I’ve found to reset my mood without caffeine or chocolate… though I still fully support both.

And on the days when music alone isn’t cutting it, I’ll pop on a quick YouTube walking video from channels like Up to the Beat Fitness or Get Fit With Rick. Ten minutes with them feels like a tiny mood reset disguised as movement, and it’s just the right amount of “I did something for myself today.”

4. A Zero‑Guilt Dinner Shortcut

This week’s MVP: rotisserie chicken. I’ve used it for tacos, salads, wraps, and one night I just put it on a plate with fruit and called it “deconstructed dinner.” No one complained. No one cried. No one asked what else we had. That alone makes it a sanity saver.

5. Saying “Not This Week” Without Apologizing

This one is new for me. I’ve been practicing saying no to the extra things—the optional commitments, the “quick favors,” the projects that sound fun but would push me over the edge. And you know what? The world keeps spinning. My shoulders feel lighter. And I’m remembering that protecting my energy is not selfish; it’s necessary.

If You’re in the Thick of It Too…

If this week has felt like a lot for you too, consider this your reminder that you’re not doing anything wrong—you’re just human, and life is full. Some seasons stretch us more than others, and needing a few shortcuts or sanity savers doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re paying attention to what you need. So take the help, choose the easy dinner, say the gentle no, and breathe. We’re figuring it out together, one small lifeline at a time.

Final Thoughts

Motherhood has a way of stretching us thin and filling us up at the same time. Some weeks require a little extra support, a few shortcuts, and a whole lot of grace. These five things are helping me stay grounded, present, and (mostly) sane—and if you’re in a similar season, I hope they remind you that small shifts can make a big difference.

Share below what’s saving your sanity this week.

With coffee in one hand and grace in the other,

💛 Bethany

5 Easy Dollar Tree DIY Valentine’s Day Crafts Anyone Can Make

1. Valentine Heart Wreath with Ribbon Bow

This wreath looks boutique‑level cute but costs just a few dollars to make.

Supplies:

Grapevine wreath
Two coordinating rolls of ribbon to create a layered bow
Small elastic (for the bow)
Wooden hearts
Hot glue
Floral wire

How to Make It:

Create a bow with each ribbon style, layer them together, and secure the stack with floral wire before attaching it to the wreath.
Glue on hearts in different sizes and colors.
Hang it on a door, mirror, or mantel for instant Valentine charm.

This one is perfect for beginners — quick, cute, and totally customizable.

2. Twine‑Strung Picture Frame with Hanging Hearts

Think of this as a mini Valentine gallery wall inside a frame.

Supplies:

Picture frame (any size)
Twine
Mini clothespins
Wooden, paper, or foam confetti hearts
Peel and stick faux wood decal
Paint (optional)

How to Make It:

Remove the glass from the frame, adhere the peel and stick decal, and trim off the access.
Paint the frame (optional)
Wrap twine across the glass several times in different directions and secure with hot glue.
Clip hearts onto the twine using mini clothespins.
Add a bow or a small wooden word if you want extra flair.

This makes a sweet tabletop display or a cute teacher gift.

3. Beaded Valentine Garland with Tassel & Wooden Heart

A simple garland that looks straight out of a farmhouse boutique.

Supplies:

Wooden beads
Twine or embroidery floss
Wooden heart
Scissors

How to Make It:

Cut a long piece of twine and tie a wooden heart on one end.
String on your beads — you can alternate sizes or paint them pink, red, and white.
Create and tie a tassel with twine or floss to the end of the garland.

Drape it on a tiered tray, across a shelf, or around a vase for a subtle Valentine touch.

4. Valentine Truck Picture Frame

If you love the classic little red truck theme, this one is for you.

Supplies:

Picture frame
Wooden truck cutout
Paint (red, pink, white, black)
Small wooden hearts or foam heart confetti

How to Make It:

Paint your wooden truck and let it dry.
Glue cardstock to the glass of the frame and reassemble the frame.
Glue the truck onto the glass.
Arrange the hearts so they look like they’re flowing out of the truck bed — like a Valentine delivery in motion.

This one is adorable on a mantel or entryway table.

5. Mini Birdhouse “Heart Garden” Display

A whimsical little craft that looks like something from a fairy garden.

Supplies:

Mini wooden birdhouse
Red paint
Moss
Wooden hearts
Small base (wood slice, cardboard circle or riser)
Floral foam

How to Make It:

Paint the birdhouse red and let it dry.
Glue a block of foam to the center of the base to give the birdhouse some height.
Cover your foam and base with moss using hot glue.
Glue the birdhouse onto the foam.
Add wooden hearts or foam hearts around the base to create a “heart garden.”

It’s tiny, sweet, and perfect for tiered trays or bookshelves.

Final Thoughts

Dollar Tree crafts are my favorite because they’re affordable, fun, and easy to personalize. These Valentine’s Day crafts bring all the charm without the stress. There’s something really sweet about taking simple little supplies and turning them into décor that feels meaningful — especially when you’re doing it with your family or carving out a few minutes of creative “me time.” These projects remind me that creativity doesn’t have to be complicated to be joyful.

And don’t forget, if you want to see these ideas come to life you can hop over to my TikTok @ohwait.imamom where I share quick, easy videos showing exactly how I make each craft. I’d love for you to craft along with me.

With coffee in one hand & a little extra love in the other,

💛 Bethany

Kindness Week: Simple Ways to Spread Joy as a Family

Why Kindness Week Matters

Kindness Week gives kids (and us grown‑ups) a chance to pause and be intentional. It teaches:

How small actions can make a big impact
How to look for needs around us
How kindness builds confidence, empathy, and connection
How good it feels to brighten someone’s day

And honestly? It’s a beautiful reset button for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Kindness Ideas for Each Day

Monday: Start With Home

Kindness begins with the people we bump into before 8 a.m.

Leave a sticky note on a mirror with a compliment
Make someone’s bed for them
Surprise your kids with a “kindness breakfast” — heart-shaped fruit, a sweet note, or their favorite cereal

Tuesday: Kindness at School

Help your kids look for small ways to make school feel lighter.

Sit with someone new at lunch
Compliment a classmate
Bring an extra snack to share
Write a thank‑you note to a teacher or bus driver
Pop one of these kindness lunchbox notes into their lunchbox and add a second for a classmate who could use a little encouragement.

Wednesday: Community Kindness

This is the perfect midweek reminder that we’re part of something bigger.

Drop off treats at the fire station
Leave encouraging chalk messages on the sidewalk
Donate gently used books or toys
Hold the door open for others everywhere you go

Thursday: Digital Kindness

Screens get a bad rap, but they can spread kindness too.

Send a positive text to a friend
Leave a kind comment on someone’s post
Share a photo memory with a family member
Help your child email a thank‑you to a teacher or coach

Friday: Kindness to Ourselves

Kids need this reminder just as much as adults.

Do a family “compliment circle”
Make a cozy reading nook and unwind
Choose one thing to let go of — a chore, a worry, a to‑do
Celebrate the week with a kindness-themed movie night

Closing Thoughts

Kindness Week is about noticing the moments where we can choose gentleness over frustration, connection over hurry, and compassion over convenience. When our kids see us practicing kindness, even in the messy imperfect ways, they learn that kindness is a lifestyle, not a one‑week event.

And that’s the kind of legacy that lasts.

With coffee in one hand and a good deed waiting in the other,

💛 Bethany

Super Bowl Party Made Simple

Quick Snacks, Fun Games & No‑Stress Hosting

Super Bowl Sunday hits that sweet spot between cozy winter comfort and big‑game excitement — and whether you’re watching for the football, the commercials, or the halftime show, it’s the perfect excuse to gather your favorite people for a fun, low‑stress night at home.

If you’re hosting this year, don’t worry… you don’t need a gourmet menu or a stadium‑sized budget. With a few simple snacks, some kid‑friendly activities, and a sprinkle of festive fun, you can pull off a Super Bowl party everyone will love.

Grab your team colors (or just your comfiest leggings), and let’s make this game day easy, delicious, and totally doable.

Easy Super Bowl Snacks Everyone Will Love

Game day food doesn’t have to be complicated. Think finger foods, dips, and anything you can prep ahead.

1. Build‑Your‑Own Nacho Bar

Set out chips, cheese, salsa, beans, jalapeños, and toppings. Kids love making their own plates, and adults love that it’s customizable.

2. Slow Cooker Meatballs

Toss in your favorite sauce — BBQ, sweet chili, or classic marinara — and let the crockpot do the work.

3. Mini Slider Station

Use Hawaiian rolls, pulled pork, chicken, or burger patties. Add pickles and cheese and call it a win.

4. Veggie + Ranch Cups

Individual cups keep things tidy and kid‑friendly.

5. Dessert Dip Trio

Chocolate chip cookie dough dip, fruit dip, and brownie batter dip. Serve with pretzels, fruit, and graham crackers.

Family‑Friendly Drinks

Touchdown Punch

A simple mix of lemonade, Sprite, and frozen berries.

Sideline Sippers

Fruit‑infused water in team colors.

For the grown‑ups

A themed cocktail or mocktail — think “Hail Mary Mule” or “Fourth‑Quarter Fizz.”

Super Bowl Activities for Kids (and Grown‑Ups Who Act Like Kids)

Let’s be honest: not everyone watches the game. Keep the fun going with simple activities that don’t require supervision.

1. Commercial Bingo

Print bingo cards with squares like “car commercial,” “celebrity cameo,” or “talking animal.” First one to bingo wins a small prize.

2. DIY Penalty Flags

Yellow tissue paper + rubber bands = instant flags. Kids will throw them constantly… but it’s adorable.

3. Football Toss Challenge

Use a laundry basket as the “end zone.” Easy, safe, and surprisingly competitive.

4. Coloring Sheets + Crayons

Football‑themed printables keep little hands busy.

5. Prediction Cards

Who will win? What will the halftime show open with? Will there be a puppy commercial? Kids love guessing.

Easy Decor That Looks Like You Tried (But You Didn’t)

Team‑Color Snack Trays

Arrange snacks by color — it looks intentional and festive.

Football Field Table Runner

Green wrapping paper + white tape = instant field.

Referee Stripes Everywhere

Black‑and‑white napkins, cups, or even a striped shirt for you.

Balloon Garland

Pick team colors or classic football brown + white.

Make the Game Feel Special

Even if you’re not a die‑hard fan, you can still create a fun atmosphere.

Dim the lights and turn on the “stadium” vibe
Keep blankets and pillows handy for cozy couch piles
Have a halftime dance break (mandatory)
Snap a family photo — jerseys optional, snacks required

Keep It Stress‑Free

Use disposable plates (no shame)
Prep snacks the day before
Keep a trash bag near the couch
Assign one kid “referee” to help with cleanup — they love the power

Final Thoughts

A Super Bowl party doesn’t have to be fancy to be fun. With simple snacks, easy activities, and a cozy setup, you can create a night full of laughter, good food, and memories — even if you don’t watch a single play.

Whether you’re cheering for your team or just here for the halftime show, I hope your game day is full of good food, good company, and zero stress.

With coffee in one hand and a foam finger in the other,

💛 Bethany

DIY Valentine’s Classroom Gifts with Free Printables

Punny Tags, Candy‑Free Ideas, and Budget‑Friendly Options Kids Will Love

Valentine’s Day in the classroom has come a long way since the flimsy perforated cards we used to pass out. These days, moms want something cute, clever, and classroom‑friendly — without spending a fortune or loading kids up with even more sugar. The good news? You can absolutely create adorable Valentine gifts that are fun, affordable, and easy to prep… especially with a few punny printable tags to tie it all together.

Whether you’re crafting for one kid or a whole classroom, these ideas are simple, budget‑friendly, and guaranteed to get smiles. And yes — the free printable tags make them look like you spent way more time than you actually did.

Why DIY Classroom Valentines?

Personal: Kids love handing out something that feels “theirs.”
Budget‑friendly: Dollar store + printable tags = magic.
Teacher‑approved: Candy‑free options keep things simple and inclusive.
Fun to assemble: A perfect weekend project with your kiddo.

Punny Valentine’s Gift Ideas (With Matching Printable Tags)

These are the crowd‑pleasers — cute, clever, and easy to assemble.

**1. “You’re Berry Sweet!”**

Pair with: strawberry fruit snacks, strawberry pencils, or berry‑scented erasers. Perfect for classrooms that prefer low‑sugar treats.

**2. “You’re Just Write!”**

Pair with: pencils, gel pens, or mini notepads. A classic for a reason — practical and always appreciated.

**3. “I’m Stuck on You!”**

Pair with: stickers, sticky notes, slime, glue, tattoos, or washi tape. This one is always a hit.

4. “You Blow Me Away!”

Pair with: mini bubbles or bubble wands. Great for younger grades and outdoor fun.

**5. “You’re Beary Awesome!”**

Pair with: gummy bears (if allowed) or bear‑shaped erasers. Adorable and easy to assemble.

**6. “You’re Wheel‑y Cool!”**

Pair with: mini toy cars or pull‑back racers. Perfect for preschool and early elementary.

7. “You Color My World!”

Pair with: crayons, markers, or mini coloring sheets. A great candy‑free option that feels creative.

**8. “Valentine, you’re un-bee-lievable!”**

Pair with: Burt’s Bees, honey sticks, or anything bee‑themed. A sweet, budget‑friendly option that feels extra thoughtful.

9. “You make my heart POP!”

Pair with: pop-fidget toy, pop rocks, or popcorn. A quick, budget‑friendly option that feels exciting.

10. “You’re ex-STRAW special!”

Pair with: a cute or silly straw. A simple add‑on that makes any drink feel extra fun.

11. “You’re a cut above the rest!”

Pair with: fun kid scissors. A hands‑on treat that sparks imagination.

12. “You’re a real goal-getter, valentine”

Pair with: squishy balls or fidgets in the shape of soccer or footballs. A great sensory option with a game‑day twist.

13. “You Light Up My Life”

Pair with: glow sticks or other glow items from the dollar store. This fun and inexpensive gift is perfect for spreading a little extra brightness.

14. “You Make My Heart Smile, Valentine”

This one is my daughter’s favorite. Who doesn’t love a smiley face, am I right? Just include something with a smiley face. Anything. It can be jewelry, stickers, socks, pencils, stationery, candy. The possibilities are endless!

Still looking for more inspiration? Here’s a few other ideas to inspire you:

“You’re One in a Melon” (Watermelon themed trinkets or flavored candy)
“You’re the Zest” (lemon candy or gifts)
“You’re the best, hands down” (sticky hand toys, lotion, hand sanitizer, or hand soap)
“You’re the coolest, Valentine” (wintergreen mint, fake snow kit, or ice cube fidget)
“You were mint to be my teacher” (mint flavored candy and gum. Or even a mint plant!)
“You’re the highlight of my day, valentine” (Pack of highlighters)

Pair any of these with a cute printable tag and you’re golden.

Tips for Stress‑Free Valentine Prep

Start early: January is the sweet spot.
Batch the steps: Cut tags one night, assemble gifts the next.
Let kids help: They love tying ribbons, sticking tape, and signing their names.
Keep extras: There’s always one classmate added at the last minute.
Store everything in a bin: No more scrambling for scissors or tape.

Final Thoughts

DIY Valentine’s classroom gifts don’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few clever puns, some candy‑free options, and adorable printable tags, you can create something your kids will be proud to hand out – and teachers will appreciate. It’s the perfect blend of creativity, practicality, and heart.

With coffee in one hand and a valentine pun in the other,

💛Bethany

Comfort Food Made Easy: A Mom’s Guide to Cooking with Kids

Easy Recipes Kids Can Help With

Winter nights call for comfort food. The kind that warms bellies, fills the house with cozy aromas, and brings everyone together around the table. But here’s the twist: these recipes aren’t just about feeding your family, they’re about including your family. With simple, kid‑friendly kitchen jobs built into each dish, dinner becomes less of a chore and more of a memory‑making moment. From slow cooker classics to playful DIY meals, these ideas will keep little hands busy, picky eaters happy, and moms feeling like the true CEO of cozy.

1. Slow Cooker Chicken & Noodles

Kid Job: Let them dump in the veggies and stir the noodles before serving.
Why It Works: Minimal prep, maximum cozy vibes. Perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken & Noodles

Course: Main Course

Ingredients

2 boneless chicken breasts
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups egg noodles
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced celery
1 can cream of chicken soup
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Place chicken, broth, carrots, celery, and soup in slow cooker.
Cook on low 6–7 hours.
Shred chicken with two forks.
Add noodles, cook 30 minutes more until tender.

2. Loaded Baked Potato Bar

Kid Job: Kids can wash potatoes, sprinkle cheese, and add toppings.
Why It Works: Everyone customizes their own plate—no picky eater complaints!

Print Recipe

Loaded Baked Potato Bar

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes
Toppings: shredded cheese sour cream, bacon bits, broccoli, chives

Instructions

Scrub potatoes, poke with fork, and bake at 400°F for 45–60 minutes.
Set out toppings in bowls.
Slice potatoes open and let everyone build their own.

3. Mini Pita Pizzas

Kid Job: Spread sauce, sprinkle cheese, and add toppings.
Why It Works: Quick bake, endless topping combos, and guaranteed giggles.

Print Recipe

Mini Pita Pizzas

Ingredients

6 mini pitas
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella
Toppings: pepperoni, veggies, olives

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
Spread sauce on pitas.
Add cheese and toppings.
Bake 8–10 minutes until cheese melts

4. Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Dippers

Kid Job: Butter bread slices and help cut sandwiches into strips.
Why It Works: Classic comfort food with a playful twist—perfect for dunking.

Print Recipe

Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Dippers

Ingredients

2 cans tomato soup
4 slices bread
4 slices cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Heat soup according to package directions.
Butter bread, add cheese, and grill until golden.
Cut sandwiches into strips for dipping.

5. Cheesy Cornbread Muffins

Kid Job: Stir batter and sprinkle cheese on top before baking.
Why It Works: Easy to make, fun to eat, and pairs with soups or chili.

Print Recipe

Cheesy Cornbread Muffins

Ingredients

1 box cornbread mix
1 egg
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
Mix cornbread batter according to package.
Stir in cheese.
Pour into muffin tin and bake 15–20 minutes

6. Warm Apple Crisp

Kid Job: Mix oats, sugar, and cinnamon for the topping.
Why It Works: Sweet, cozy dessert that makes the whole house smell amazing.

Print Recipe

Warm Apple Crisp

Ingredients

4 apples sliced
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup oats
1/4 cup flour
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup butter melted

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Place apples in baking dish.
Mix sugar, oats, flour, cinnamon, and butter for topping.
Sprinkle over apples.
Bake 30–35 minutes until bubbly.

Mom Tips

Prep Together: Assign age-appropriate tasks so kids feel proud of their contributions.
Make It Fun: Play music, wear aprons, and turn dinner into a mini cooking show.
Double Up: Cook extra for leftovers—comfort food tastes even better the next day.

Final Thought

These recipes aren’t just about comfort—they’re about connection. Letting kids stir, sprinkle, and assemble makes dinner prep fun and memorable. These easy recipes bring warmth to winter nights and give kids a chance to shine in the kitchen. And if you’re looking for more ways to keep little hands busy this winter, check out my Snow Day Survival Guide or Activities for Shorter Days posts packed with creative indoor activities for kids—perfect for snow days, cozy weekends, or anytime cabin fever strikes.

With coffee in one hand and a spoon in the other,

💛Bethany

Snow Day Magic: Indoor Activities Kids Will Love

Creative Indoor Activities for Kids When School Is Canceled

The snow is falling, the school text alert just buzzed, and suddenly you’re promoted to Chief Entertainment Officer of your household. Snow days can be magical, but they can also test a mom’s patience faster than you can say “hot cocoa.” After the snowman is built and the mittens are drying by the door, you’ll need a stash of cozy, creative indoor activities to keep the fun rolling. Here’s your ultimate survival guide packed with creative, low-stress indoor activities to keep the kids busy, happy, and (mostly) off screens.

1. DIY Snow-Themed Crafts

Paper Snowflakes: Classic, easy, and mess-free. Challenge the kids to make the most intricate designs.
Snow Globe Jars: Mason jars + glitter + water + a tiny toy = instant winter wonderland.
Cotton Ball Snowmen: Glue, googly eyes, and construction paper hats—adorable and simple.

2. Kitchen Adventures

Snow Day Snack Mix: Pretzels, marshmallows, chocolate chips, and popcorn tossed together.
Bake & Decorate Cookies: Let the kids go wild with frosting and sprinkles.
Hot Cocoa Bar: Set out whipped cream, candy canes, and marshmallows for a cozy DIY station.

3. Indoor Energy Burners

Living Room Obstacle Course: Pillows, chairs, and blankets become tunnels and hurdles.
Dance Party: Crank up a playlist and let them burn off cabin fever.
Balloon Volleyball: A balloon + a piece of string across the room = hours of giggles.

4. Imagination Stations

Snow Day Theater: Kids write a short play, make costumes from old clothes, and perform.
Indoor Camping: Pitch a tent (or blanket fort), add flashlights, and tell stories.
Story Dice: Roll dice with pictures (or make your own) to spark silly storytelling.

5. Quiet Time Activities

Puzzle Challenge: See who can finish their section first.
Coloring Contest: Print winter-themed coloring sheets and let creativity shine.
Read-Aloud Marathon: Pick a family favorite and take turns reading chapters.

Mom Survival Tips

Prep a “Snow Day Box”: Keep a stash of craft supplies, puzzles, and snacks ready for surprise cancellations.
Set Mini Schedules: Break the day into chunks—crafts, snacks, play, quiet time—to keep things flowing.
Embrace the Chaos: Remember, these are the days your kids will remember most. Messy kitchens and blanket forts are part of the magic.

Final Thought

Snow days don’t have to mean endless screen time or frazzled moms. With a little creativity (and maybe an extra cup of coffee), you can turn a canceled school day into a cozy, joy-filled family memory.

With coffee in one hand and a snowball in the other,

💛 Bethany

Word of the Year: How Moms Can Choose One

A guide to setting an intentional theme for parenting and personal life

Every January, we’re bombarded with resolutions: eat healthier, exercise more, get organized. But as moms, our lives rarely fit neatly into checklists. Between school drop-offs, late-night science projects, and endless laundry, resolutions can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve fallen in love with the idea of choosing a Word of the Year instead.

A single word becomes your compass—a theme that guides decisions, grounds you in chaos, and reminds you of what matters most.

Why a Word of the Year Works for Moms

Simple & Flexible: Unlike rigid resolutions, a word adapts to your season of life.
Intentional: It keeps you focused on values rather than tasks.
Empowering: It’s a reminder that growth doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be present.

How to Choose Your Word

Reflect on the Past Year Ask yourself: What did I learn? What challenged me? What do I want more (or less) of?
Identify Your Priorities Think about motherhood and personal life. Do you crave more patience, joy, balance, or courage?
Brainstorm Words Write down words that resonate. Don’t overthink—just let them flow.
Test Your Word Imagine saying: “This year, I choose [word].” Does it feel empowering? Does it fit both your parenting and personal life?

Word Inspiration for Moms

Grace – for the messy moments.
Joy – for finding laughter in chaos.
Balance – for juggling family and self-care.
Courage – for setting boundaries and trying new things.
Presence – for slowing down and savoring small moments.

Final Thought

Choosing a Word of the Year isn’t about perfection—it’s about direction. As moms, we don’t need more pressure; we need reminders of what matters most. Whether your word is patience, joy, or growth, let it guide you through the beautiful, bewildering dance of motherhood in 2026.

Free Worksheet for Moms

To make it even easier, I’ve created a free printable worksheet to help you reflect, brainstorm, and choose your Word of the Year. It’s a simple guide with prompts and space to jot down ideas—perfect for busy moms who want clarity without the overwhelm. Download it, grab a cup of coffee, and let your word find you!

What word are you choosing this year? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear your theme!

With coffee in one hand and a word of the year in the other,

💛 Bethany

What My Tween Taught Me This Year: Wrapping Up 2025

A mix of humor, growth, and unexpected wisdom bombs from the front lines of motherhood.

This year, my tween taught me that eye rolls can be a form of punctuation, that silence sometimes speaks louder than sass, and that growing up is a beautiful, bewildering dance between independence and still needing your mom to find the missing sock.

Here are just a few of the lessons I didn’t expect to learn—but absolutely needed:

1. Confidence Isn’t Always Loud

She strolled into school rocking mismatched socks and her favorite western boots. When I asked if she wanted to swap them out, she simply shrugged and said, “Why? I like it.” In that instant, I realized confidence isn’t about blending in—it’s about owning who you are and showing up unapologetically yourself.

2. Feelings Are Messy—and That’s Okay

There were tears over group chats, friend drama, and math homework that “literally makes no sense.” But instead of fixing everything, I learned to sit beside her in the mess. She didn’t need a solution—she needed a safe space to feel.

3. Boundaries Are Brave

She told a friend “no” this year. Not rudely, not dramatically—just firmly. And then she told me how hard it was. Watching her navigate that moment made me realize how often we, as moms, forget to set our own boundaries. She reminded me that saying “no” is an act of self-respect.

4. Humor Is a Lifeline

From sarcastic comebacks to inside jokes about our black lab’s dramatic sighs, she taught me that laughter is how we survive the hard days. Especially when the Wi-Fi goes out or someone forgets their science project until 9:47 p.m.

5. She’s Becoming Her Own Person—and That’s the Goal

She’s not a mini-me. She’s a whole, complex, creative soul who loves weird facts, doodling on her hands, and changing her mind about everything. And while I sometimes miss the days of bedtime stories and sticky hugs, I’m in awe of the person she’s becoming.

Final Thought

Motherhood in the tween years is like watching a butterfly emerge—equal parts wonder and worry. But this year, my daughter reminded me that growth isn’t always graceful, and love doesn’t always look like agreement. Sometimes, it looks like showing up, listening hard, and laughing through the chaos.

What’s something your child taught you this year? Drop it in the comments or write them a note—you might be surprised what comes out.

With a coffee in one hand and lessons in the other,

💛Bethany

Family-Friendly Countdown: Hourly Activities to Ring in the New Year

Forget the fancy galas and champagne toasts—this New Year’s Eve is all about pajamas, popcorn, and playful chaos. Whether you’re hosting a mini party or just trying to keep the kids entertained until midnight (or, let’s be real, 9:00 PM), this family-friendly countdown is packed with hourly mini-games, crafts, and giggle-worthy challenges.

Set a timer, prep your printable kit, and let the fun begin!

🕒 6:00 PM – DIY Party Hats

Kick off the night with creativity! Break out the glitter, pom-poms, and printable hat templates. Let everyone design their own “official countdown crown.” Bonus: snap a photo of each masterpiece for a memory collage.

🕖 7:00 PM – Balloon Pop Challenge

Fill balloons with silly dares or trivia questions, then pop one every hour. Ideas include:

“Do your best robot dance”
“Name 5 things you loved about this year”
“Sing the chorus of your favorite song”

The suspense of waiting for the next balloon keeps the energy high!

🕗 8:00 PM – Dance-Off Hour

Turn up the music and let the living room become a disco. Create themed playlists like:

Mom’s Throwback Jams (hello, 90s hits!)
Tween Bops (current favorites for the kids)

Award silly prizes like “Most Dramatic Spin” or “Best Air Guitar.”

🕘 9:00 PM – New Year’s Bingo

Print bingo cards and add family-friendly prompts such as:

“Someone yawns”
“A snack is spilled”
“Someone says ‘2026 is our year!’”

First one to shout “BINGO!” gets dibs on the next snack round.

🕙 10:00 PM – Time Capsule Craft

Gather slips of paper and write down favorite memories, funny quotes, or goals for next year. Seal them in a decorated jar or envelope to open next NYE. This tradition grows sweeter each year.

🕚 11:00 PM – Mocktail Mixology

Let kids play bartender with juice, soda, and fruit garnishes. Add straw flags and drink tags like:

“Fizzolution”
“Midnight Magic”

Taste-test each creation and vote on the “House Favorite.”

🕛 12:00 AM – Confetti Countdown & Toast

Cue the countdown, toss the confetti (or tissue paper squares for easy cleanup), and toast with your mocktails. Don’t forget a group selfie with your DIY hats—it’s the perfect way to capture the joy of ringing in the new year together.

Bonus: Ideas to Sprinkle In

Photo Booth Corner (anytime): Hang a sparkly backdrop (or a blanket!) and set out props like goofy glasses, boas, and hats. Snap silly photos throughout the night for a mini “yearbook.”
Snack Decorating Station (around 8:30 PM): Let kids decorate cookies, popcorn bags, or cupcakes with sprinkles and icing. It doubles as an activity and a treat.
Glow Stick Limbo (after Dance-Off Hour): Turn off the lights, grab glow sticks, and see who can limbo the lowest.
Countdown Playlist (leading to midnight): Create a playlist with one song per year from the past decade—each track is a mini time machine.

✨ Pro Tips for Parents:

If your crew won’t make it to midnight, shift the countdown earlier. The fun is in the activities, not the clock!

Prep all printables and supplies earlier in the day so you’re not scrambling mid-countdown.

Use disposable tablecloths for craft stations—easy cleanup means more time for fun.

Ring in the Fun!

Forget the stress of planning—this New Year’s Eve is all about laughter, creativity, and cozy chaos. With hourly games, crafts, and challenges, you’ve got everything you need to keep the countdown magical (whether you make it to midnight or not!).

✨ Ready to make it even easier? 👉 Download your NYE Starter Kit packed with printable hats, bingo cards, balloon dares, and more. It’s the perfect way to kick off your family celebration without the prep hassle.

Here’s to confetti, giggles, and a fresh start—cheers to 2026! 🥂🎉

With a coffee in one hand and a party hat in the other,

💛Bethany